Is Starting from Scratch Your New Year's Resolution?

A New Year is coming and so many new resolutions are being planned! How many times did you say you just want to start from scratch? A blank slate, back to the drawing board, start fresh - starting from scratch is a state of mind. Whether you really start from a blank slate or just need a small nudge as it’s long overdue, here are four things to embrace when you start from scratch.

Embrace the Unknown

Once you decide to start from scratch you need to acknowledge that you aren’t continuing a paved path. You don’t take any past decision for granted, it’s OK to doubt decisions, call for help, or not instantly know the answer.

Embrace uncertainty. Some of the most beautiful chapters of our lives won't have a title until much later. Bob Goff

Embrace a Learning Mindset

Wouldn’t it be boring if we knew everything about everything? Starting from scratch means you are empowered (and even forced) to embrace a learning mindset. Look for books, podcasts, blogs and give yourself time to learn, and understand what you have just learned. Following and connecting with individuals that paved a similar path to the one you are about to be on is always a great way to start. Those people are usually busy and probably harder to access. Follow them on social media and see if they plan a speaking engagement, maybe your questions can be answered in the Q&A section of that talk. You can always read their posts and comment with your question. It's a respectful way in!

Embrace the Anxiety

Yes, that! The fear of failure, the imposter syndrome however you choose to call it - is scary. No one loves or enjoys failure so prepare as much as possible and be kind to yourself if starting from scratch is not as easy as you thought it is.

Worry is like a rocking chair: it gives you something to do but never gets you anywhere. Erma Bombeck

Embrace a Community

Choose your (famous) quote: “Alone we can do so little. Together we can do so much” and “None of us is as smart as all of us” or “those who have a strong sense of love and belonging have the courage to be imperfect”. Ex-employees, peers, bosses, classmates or a group of like-minded professionals can support your journey of starting from scratch from good advice to a listening ear